How do you create a plane using a 3D printer

The 3D printers are the natural evolution of those who habitually use in our homes and in our offices. How easy to understand, printers assuring the three-dimensional reproduction of a 3D model made ​​by computer with a standard modeling software. Through the use of 3D printers, it becomes possible to assemble together multiple “cuts” made ​​using different materials with different physical properties. To obtain three-dimensional objects from a 3D printer available today are different methodologies that differ from one another how to manufacture the various layers that make up objects. Exactly one year ago, researchers at the University of Southampton explained that he developed a prototype of an aircraft capable of flying.


All parts of the model, a couple of meters long, were made ​​using a 3D printer and then assembled. Dubbed ” Sulsa “, the small plane is electrically powered and has the electronics to be remotely controlled. Today, however, are the engineers of Airbus aircraft to the well-known construction company, headquartered in Toulouse (France), to raise: by 2050 will arrive the first planes built almost entirely using 3D printers, secure Bastian says Schafer, explaining that seems far from impossible the realization of a model “real” at least 80 meters long.

The use of 3D printing technologies allow you to get parts that are on average 65% lighter than those used today, and definitely much less expensive. Schafer explained that he worked on a prototype aircraft built from parts with 3D printers in Over the past two years. The results so far collected and experience gained will result in something truly innovative. By the end of 2012, after verifying the compatibility with the laws, Airbus expects to introduce the first components created by a 3D printer in its aircraft line. The Eurofighter Typhoon military aircraft has already forged parts using innovative printing technology.